At Honeywild Photography, I believe newborn photography is more than just capturing beautiful images—it’s creating art that reflects your family’s unique story. Every baby is different, every family has its own vibe, and every session should feel like it was made just for you.
Why I Started Offering Styling Consultations
For a long time, I relied solely on the pre-session styling questionnaire to guide how I prepared each session. While those answers are helpful, I often felt like I was styling in the dark. With so many subtle variations in colors and textures, it’s easy for things to get lost in translation. For example, when someone says they like “green,” that could mean sage, olive, mint, forest, or even Kelly green—and each of those shades tells a very different story in your images.
I started to realize: my clients are investing in heirloom-quality newborn portraits. These sessions are art. You deserve to see your vision come to life—not just guess at it. So I created a space where we can connect, preview what’s available, and make styling decisions together.
That’s where the pre-session styling consultation comes in.
Now, we can plan your session with complete clarity and intention. And the result? A gallery that not only looks beautiful—but feels just like you.
What Is a Pre-Session Styling Consultation?
A pre-session styling consultation is a relaxed, collaborative planning session that happens at least one week before your scheduled newborn session, either in person or via Zoom.
This consultation allows us to:
- Preview all of the backdrops, props, wraps, and accessories I have avaialable
- Talk through style preferences, inspirations, and color palettes
- Build up to five styled setups
- Plan any specific poses or moments you want to capture
- Scheduling the consultations ahead of time gives me enough time order any specific color backdrops, or accessories I may not have but you would like included.
It’s completely complimentary for all clients who’ve booked a newborn session.
Important note:
Not everyone wants or needs a consultation—and that’s totally okay! If you’d prefer to skip this step, I’m still more than happy to style your session for you based on your questionnaire. Many of my clients trust me to take the lead, and I’m always honored to do that. The consultation is simply an added option for those who want to be more involved in the creative process.
How It Works: Step-by-Step
Once your session is booked, you’ll receive a link to schedule your pre-session styling consultation:
👉 Book Your Styling Consultation Here
Before the Session:
- You’ll complete a short styling questionnaire to share your preferences (colors, vibe, inspirations, etc.)
- I’ll review your answers and pull backdrops, wraps, props, and accessories that I believe fit your style
During the Session:
- If we’re meeting via Zoom, I’ll send your meeting link 15 minutes before we start
- I’ll walk you through the items I’ve pulled and ask for feedback
- You’ll help finalize up to five styled setups
- We’ll also talk about poses or shots that matter most to you—whether that’s tiny toes, swaddled coziness, or a sibling snuggle
Why This Experience Matters
As a newborn photographer in Grand Rapids, MI, I know that session prep can feel overwhelming—especially for new parents. That’s why this added service is meant to make things easier, not harder.
Pre-session styling consultations:
- Take the guesswork out of session prep
- Help us align our creative vision
- Make sure you walk into the studio confident and excited
- Allow me to style your session with intention and heart
Whether you’re dreaming of soft neutrals, monochromatic textures, or rich warm tones, you deserve images that reflect what you actually imagined.
What to Expect on Session Day
When you walk into my warm and cozy studio in Grand Rapids, you’ll find that everything we discussed is already styled and ready to go. Your baby’s comfort comes first, and the space is designed with both calm and creativity in mind.
Here’s what your session includes:
- A private, peaceful environment with time for feeding, breaks, and snuggles
- Soft music, white noise, and gentle movements to keep baby soothed
- Safe, natural posing that highlights every sweet detail
- A full gallery of images that reflect your vision and my artistic eye
I work with warm tones, layered textures, and soft shadows to create timeless, elevated imagery—and thanks to our planning session, you’ll know exactly what’s coming.
Where I’m Located + Why Families Choose Me
Honey Wild Photography is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and I serve families from Ada, Rockford, Byron Center, Cascade, East Grand Rapids, and beyond. Clients come to me for a high-end, cozy, and customized newborn experience that prioritizes quality and connection.
I’ve been photographing newborns for over three years, and I specialize in simple, soulful setups that keep the focus on your baby. My goal is to create artwork you’ll love for decades—not just something pretty for your feed.(Although I do that too 😉)
FAQ: Pre-Session Styling Consultations
Are styling consultations required?
Nope! These sessions are optional. If you’d rather I style the session based on your completed questionnaire, I’m happy to do that—and I’ll still create something beautiful and unique for your baby.
What if I don’t know my style?
That’s okay! The questionnaire is designed to help you explore your preferences, and I’ll show you a variety of styles during the consultation so you can respond to what feels right.
Can I bring my own outfit or props?
Absolutely! If you have a meaningful item (like a blanket, headband, or family heirloom), we’ll talk about how to incorporate it naturally into your setups.
What if I can’t do the consultation on a Wednesday?
If your schedule is tricky, reach out—I’ll do my best to find a time that works.
How far in advance should I book it?
Consultations must be scheduled at least one week before your newborn session. This gives me time to style, prep, and customize everything for your baby’s big day. The earlier we hold your styled session the better chance I have to purchase, and receive any colors or items I don’t already have for your session.
Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together
I started offering pre-session styling consultations because I want every family who walks through my studio doors to feel seen, heard, and cared for. Your baby’s first portraits should feel like art that tells your story, not just pretty pictures on a backdrop.
✨ If you’ve booked your session already, don’t wait—
👉 Click here to schedule your complimentary styling consultation.
Still exploring photographers? I’d love to chat and help you create the newborn photos you’ve been dreaming of.
xoxo
Jackie
